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Here comes the sun(stone)

If you want baubles that sparkle as bright as the sun, look no further than sunstone. Sunstone, a distinctive gemstone and a plagioclase feldspar mineral, exhibits a brilliant spangled glow that will add the perfect sunny sparkle-and-shine to your jewelry box. Little known in the United States until the early 1900s, when an abundant sunstone field was found in an ancient lava desert in Oregon, sunstone encourages independence, leadership, and originality in its wearer.

Orange Sunstone

(Image via Gemological Institute of America)

How did these three qualities become synonymous with sunstone? The gem's history stretches much further than its commercial popularity. Native American legend states that a great warrior's blood, wounded by an arrow during battle, dropped onto pieces of sunstone; his spirit, carried by his blood, permeated the stones and transferred his extraordinary qualities to them.

Catherine Angiel Intricate Sunstone Rings

As such, sunstone is typically found in orange, red, and yellow hues. The rarest types of sunstone – dark blue and green in color – are hard to come by; sunstone's origin, at the foot of basaltic volcanoes, gives it a distinctive yet subtle bronzed glow that is highly sought after by jewelers and customers alike.

Blue-Green Sunstone

(Image via Gemological Institute of America)

Sunstone is also used in crystal healing for a multitude of purposes – general health, physical energy, phobias, and stress-related illnesses. Just wearing sunstone on your finger or around your neck or wrist can help to alleviate symptoms of stress and anxiety. In healing, sunstone is associated with the sacral chakra, which helps its wearer to experience life fully through feeling and sensation and, thus, allows him or her to – literally! – live life to the fullest.

Pairing your baubles with the dress

The midst of wedding season coincides with the midst of summer's dead heat. As the temperature rises, your main fashion focus is staying cool – not standing out. Lucky for you, that’s where fine jewelry comes in! Sparkly, one-of-a-kind custom pieces can personalize your outfit without adding an extra layer of clothing (or sweat!). Whether you’re the bride, a bridesmaid, or a guest, your outfit for the big day is never complete without a little something you to complement your something new. Our four favorite bridal picks have you covered all the way to the altar (and beyond!).

Our delicate, diamond-encrusted Moroccan flower necklace is the new black – it goes with anything! A gorgeous topper to your wedding gown or a unique memento gift for your bridal party, its custom design lends itself seamlessly to versatility. Inspired by vibrant, unique Moroccan prints and patterns, the necklace will go straight from your wedding day wardrobe to your everyday wardrobe.

Even if you already have a ring on that finger, don’t forget about the other four! Add a few simple diamond (or black diamond) stacking bands and a rose gold midi ring to your hand to stay on top of the latest jewelry trend (multi-layered rings have recently been worn by Rihanna, Sarah Jessica Parker, and J.Lo, so you’re in good company!). The one-of-a-kind rings are perfect for adding a boho twist to a bridesmaid dress, or upping the edge on an alternative-style bridal gown.

The perfect date for any wedding is a custom Catherine Angiel bracelet on your arm. With our delicate, handcrafted pyrite bracelet, you’ll never have to worry about blending into the crowd! Pyrite has been used in jewelry-making for centuries, reaching the height of its popularity during the Victorian era (and making it the perfect fit for a vintage-style bride). The 24 strands of faceted beads close around your wrist with the help of Cat’s custom, intricate sterling silver tribal closure lock. The fine-but-fierce pyrite bracelet blends the traditionalism of older times with the modernity of today and, just like you, it never goes out of style.

Don’t worry – we didn’t forget the dudes! Spice up your suit by picking up a pair of our unique black diamond cufflinks. Cat’s signature cross is constructed with dazzling black diamonds that contrast beautifully with the cufflinks’ white gold seal-style backing; they’re the perfect complement to any suit or tux. Inspired by the jewelry of 15th century royalty, the custom cufflinks make a great gift for your groomsmen or an awesome accessory for your ushers. They’re also a celebrity favorite; Ethan Hawke wore his own personal pair to this year’s Golden Globes!

Which piece will you be picking up for wedding season? Tell us in the comments.

Greenwich Village History

Greenwich Village has a long history as a battleground for gay rights; it was the site of 1969’s Stonewall Riots and 1970’s succeeding inaugural Christopher Street Pride March. Today, more than 40 years after its inception right here in Greenwich, New York City’s Pride Week and Pride March continue to be a triumphant tradition of taking pride and rejoicing in the LGBT community. Every summer, we are proud to celebrate the weeklong festivities along with the rest of the city.

Catherine is a long-time advocate for equality and for same-sex marriage. When she opened her store in Greenwich Village in 1993, she wanted all of her customers to feel proud of and to celebrate their commitment to each other. Determined to create a safe haven for her gay customers, Cat knew there needed to be an official, special name for same-sex couples’ rings; their unions were just as sacred and loving as those who could legally marry – and they were just as committed to each other for life. Thus, she coined the term “commitment band” for the rings, which soon became – and which still remains – a globally utilized term.

However, Cat wasn’t finished being a crusader for gay rights on both the national and international stages. During the summer of 1993, she was on the cover of Newsweek’s groundbreaking “Lesbians: Coming Out Strong” issue. The lead article, entitled “The Power And The Pride,” broke the barriers surrounding homosexuality in the media and gave a face to whom the article called the “invisible homosexual” – the lesbian. The issue inspired global conversation regarding the treatment of homosexuality in society and in the media.

Today, Cat continues to push boundaries and to be proud of who she is. Her custom, badass “Dangerous” fine jewelry collection includes a tattoo-inspired “Queer” necklace; she has designed a myriad of unique, custom commitment bands for same-sex couples (which, after SCOTUS' affirmative ruling on gay marriage on June 26, can now serve as wedding bands!). Cat’s designs are personal to each customer; her pieces help every individual to celebrate their own unique identity.

Be a total badass

You’ve seen them on Madonna, her daughter, Lourdes, and The Divine Miss M, Bette Midler – now get personal with your own badass custom initial-letter necklace, hot off Cat’s design desk! Inspired by tattoo- and tribal-style graffiti writing, the diamond-encrusted letter necklaces pack a sexy-meets-chic punch that will give a unique edge to even the simplest of your outfits.

Don’t just say it with diamonds – make a statement. The personalized pendant necklaces, each adorned with unique black or gray diamonds, make a statement and then some! The pieces are custom-made to complement your one-of-a-kind, unique style; finally, your jewelry can be as much of an individual as you are.

The personalized “Dangerous” letter collection is sexy, sparkly, and a stand-out addition to your jewelry box. Let your necklace do the talking by pairing up the pendants (as shown above) with a word or message. Looking to spread the love? “XO”! Feeling badass? “BAD”! There are no limits to the mixes and matches you can make with a personalized “Dangerous” letter pendant or necklace in your arsenal.

Which letter(s) will you be sporting this summer? Tell us in the comments.

Lourdes put her own cool-girl-chic spin on the piece by pairing it with a multitude of mixed-metal necklaces, a graphic tee, and a gray skirt. Superb style runs in the family; Mama Madonna owns Catherine's black diamond "M" earrings from the same collection – and she wore them in her recent "Ghosttown" music video!

Even if you weren't lucky enough to be descended from the original pop princess (and, let's be real, most of us weren't!), don't let it prevent you from staying in rhythm with sensational style. Stop into 43 Greenwich Avenue and get personal with an initial necklace of your own!

What to wear this summer

With only eleven days left until the summer solstice (mark your calendars – it falls on June 21), it’s time to peel off the warm winter layers and to put on some hot summer jewelry. We’ve handpicked a few of our favorite summer selections to help you start your summer off the right way – in style.

Full finger rings aren’t for the faint of heart, but even the shyest of wallflowers will find herself shining in our champagne diamond full finger ring. The intricate, shield-style floral design paired with delicate, champagne-colored diamonds will have you ready to pop open a bottle of your favorite rosé and hit the beach.

Neither your jewelry nor your worries should weigh you down this summer, so choose light-but-bright pieces that allow for maximum movement (what edgy-chic chick isn’t ready to bust a move at the first signs of her favorite song?). Our diamond hoop earrings are the perfect complement to your halter-tops, short-shorts, or sundresses. No matter what adventures you find this summer, these hoops won’t cramp your style; they’ll perfect it.

Whether you’re queen of the beach volleyball court or princess of the pool, make this summer a royal flush – not a royal bust. Our gold crown stud earrings are perfect for dressing up your favorite pair of jeans on Friday afternoon or spicing up your little black dress on Saturday night (not to mention, they make the perfect golden pair with your golden summer tan!). Before long, Kate Middleton will be taking style tips from you.

It takes courage to brave the sky-high New York City summer temperatures; wear your nerve around your neck with our kanji courage symbol necklace. With a unique and intricate orange sapphire chain paired with an orange diamond encrusted pendant, you’ll be a fierce warrior of style all throughout the summer – and beyond.

The Queen of Pop

With the long awaited release of Madonna’s video “Ghosttown,” we were on the edge of our seats to see what the Queen of Pop had up her sleeve. And as usual, Madonna did not disappoint. This visually stunning video, directed by the talented Jonas Akerlaund, proved to naysayers and longtime fans that Madonna’s still got it; and Catherine Angiel couldn’t be more grateful that the jewelry Madonna selected was hers.

Madonna is known to push the boundaries with her avant-garde style, which makes for the perfect partnership with Catherine Angiel’s innovative signature edgy designs. We can’t wait to see what else Madonna has in store.

Red carpet trends

Award season means jaw dropping dresses gracing the red carpet. But the men deserve some attention too! Personal friend and client, Ethan Hawke, looked so dapper in his Dior tux and his favorite signature Catherine Angiel black diamond cross seal cufflinks at the Golden Globes.

Each year, The Academy brings together Hollywood’s A-list celebrities for a night at the The Oscars. And every year, the celebrities grace the red carpet with drop dead gorgeous dresses and their beautiful jewels. This year was no exception! See some of our favorite red carpet looks from The Oscars paired with Catherine Angiel designs.

Jewelry that's perfect both day & night

Do you need a necklace that can go with you straight from work to a night out on the town? Fine jewelry like that is hard to come by--but with Catherine Angiel's collection of Moroccan diamond necklaces, you can easily achieve that sought after day to night look!

Make 'Em Sweat

While everyone else at the office will be reluctant to show off their holiday gifts, make sure he's proud of his bling! Give them something to talk about at the water cooler by buying the guy in your life these signature Catherine's Angiel, black diamond cuff links. As far as he's concerned, no one else got any gifts.

The Lady Who Has Everything

Not sure what to buy your lady who has everything this holiday season? Check out Catherine Angiel's unique jewelry designs. From the ever trending rose gold to bold and unique black diamonds. Take her breath away this holiday!

The Little Black Box

Why be mainstream when your cocktail ring can outshine anything in that little blue box? "This I take it wasn't bought at Tiffany's?" Damn straight! But it wasn't from a cracker jack box either Give your honey the gift of her dreams in the little black box. Shop Catherine Angiel this holiday season.

Pearls are a Lady's Best Friend

Diamonds may be a girl's best friend, but pearls are a lady's best accessory. This holiday, give her the gift that combines the two best gems a woman can ask for. This Catherine Angiel signature pearl bracelet with black pave diamonds would've been Audrey Hepburn's first choice. Breakfast at Catherine Angiel's please!

For the unique bride

This grey rose cut diamond ring is as unique as she is. A rare, gorgeous beauty that reflects the individuality of the bride-to-be who wears it, the grey diamond ring is a perfect option for non-traditional couples. A 3.56-carat grey diamond stands out in a muted 18-karat white gold band. A breathtaking, unique design is the perfect way to draw the right attention after popping that all-important question. Start the journey to the aisle off right by giving a unique grey diamond engagement ring that she will be dying to show off to all of her friends. The generous gem gets people talking when their eyes are drawn to the eye-popping diamond in a color that even the most dedicated jewelry aficionados are likely to have never seen before. Let the jewelry do the talking by pulling the trigger on a dazzling diamond that is as rare as it is beautiful.

There's something so special and sentimental about proposing to the love of your life with an engagement ring that's been in your family for generations.

But for people who aren't fortunate to inherit that piece and want to have that authentic vintage look, where do they turn?

Catherine Angiel's vintage bridal collection will immediately transport you back to that 1920's era. Each ring is handmade, with intricate beading and filigree detail to give you that graceful, romantic estate look for you to start a tradition of your own for generations to come!

Perfect for that non-traditional couple with edge who want to make that commitment to each other without the pain of going under the needle!

Raw and feminine

An engagement ring is supposed to sweep the receptor off of their feet, while also providing them with a meaningful token of love that will last for an eternity. If you have found the perfect setting and you are looking to put a little more meaning into your engagement ring, consider using a morganite for the center stone, as opposed to the more traditional diamond!

Morganite is a gem named for J.P. Morgan, a financier and a gem-enthusiast. The stone is known to bring healing, compassion, assurance, and promise, making this perfect to place inside of a ring for your other half. Morganite is said to attract one’s soulmate or bring a couple that is already in a relationship even deeper into their love. In addition to these loving properties, morganite reduces stress in those who wear it, especially if it is worn for a long time.

The pink hue of morganite evokes a very romantic feeling. The warmth of the rose gold and the pink of the morganite creates a unique style that your significant other will absolutely love!!

If you love this look and want to try it out for yourself, we can help you! We have a similar pair of earrings, exclusively at Catherine Angiel.

Come check them out at our showroom, 43 Greenwich Ave!!

All that glitters isn't always gold & who cares

Recently jewelry artist Catherine Angiel has been inspired by pyrite, an earth mineral that most people know as 'Fool's Gold'. Pyrite has been used to make jewelry for centuries, reaching the height of its popularity during the Victorian era. A mineral that evokes images of fire and warmth, pyrite literally comes from the Greek word for fire, Catherine found that it fit right in with her modern-vintage aesthetic. Aside from being known as 'Fool's Gold', pyrite has been called 'healer's gold' and is used as a gemstone for protection and promoting a happy state of mind.

Pyrite is perfect for those who are looking for something different to add to their jewelry box, while maintaining an overall glamorous feeling.

Harvey Milk Day

Today is a very special day in the LGBT community. Not only is is Harvey Milk Day/what would've been his 84th birthday, but today the White House Office of Public Engagement, the United States Postal Service and Harvey Milk Foundation, will host a first-day-of-issue dedication ceremony for the Harvey Milk Forever Stamp at the White House.

Harvey Milk was a true visionary for the LGBT community when he became the fist openly gay man to hold a major political position on the San Francisco Board of Supervisors in 1977. All of his tremendous achievements gave hope to a community who at the time were encountered by such widespread discrimination and hostility. Harvey Milk believed that government should represent all citizens, ensuring equality and providing needed services.

Unfortunately on November 27, 1978, less than a year after he took office, Harvey Milk, along with Mayor George Moscone, was assassinated by supervisor Daniel White.

Harvey Milk has become an icon and a martyr for gay rights. His bravery and determination is the motivation for the modern day gay rights movement.

So you have the dream dress, the perfect venue, a mouth watering menu, a rockin' band, and the most beautiful flower arrangements. But what's missing? The WEDDING BANDS!

You want a band that will compliment your engagement ring but can also stand alone as a unique piece. But why choose just one? Stacking bands has become a very creative way to show off your personal style. Mix and match metals, patterns and textures because you can never have too much bling!

This year marks the 50th anniversary of one of the most legendary bands The Who. So what better way to celebrate than by sharing with all of you one of the most amazing moments of my life!

When I was 14 years old, my mom took my brother and I on vacation to the Fountainbleau Hotel in Miami.

I was sitting in the lobby, bored out of my mind, when a beautiful, poised woman sat next to me and started talking to me. Turns out it was Swedish supermodel Annette Walter-Lax! Then a man walked up to her and told her he would meet her at the hotel restaurant, then walked away.

I looked up and my jaw hit the floor. I then turned to Annette,

Me: "Do you know who that was?!"

Annette: "My boyfriend."

Me: "Oh my God!! You're boyfriend is Keith Moon?! He's my IDOL!!!"

Annette: "Would you like to meet him?"

I thought I was going to die.

Me: "YES!!"

She then arranged a time for us to meet the following afternoon. I couldn't believe it!

The next day, I could not get ready fast enough! I put on my favorite Who t-shirt, my favorite white overalls and headed right to the hotel lobby.

At 4:00, the elevator doors opened, and there he stood, my idol. He had on a killer white suit and a walking stick. So boss. He then walked over to me, bowed, and kissed my hand!!!

Keith Moon: "Catherine, I'm Keith and it's a pleasure to meet you."

I had no words.

Keith Moon: "Would you like to go to the bah?"

Huh?

Me: "What's a bah?"

He then pointed to the Poodle Lounge. Oh, he was saying BAR. Duh, Catherine!

So off we went to sit and chat about music and so, so much more. It was surreal. Just as I thought the moment couldn't get any better, Keith asks,

Keith Moon: "Would you like to meet Roger Daltrey?"

I could only nod my head yes.

Keith called his room and then 10 minutes later, Roger freakin' Daltrey walks in and gives me a big hug! So COOL!

The three of us talked for a while but I could barely understand a word they were saying! Being a girl from Queens, I had never heard a British accent before! However, they were so kind, generous and made me feel so special!

I'll never forget meeting my idol in such an amazing way. It was then I realized dreams really do come true.

...best vacation EVER!

Greetings from the West Coast!

I'm so happy to be back in California to show you all my new designs!

The first stop is Beverly Hills, my home away from home! I will be at Neiman Marcus today and tomorrow from 10AM-5PM! But first, I had to visit my good friends Wendy Wagner, Laura Martelli and of course Gentleman Norman!

I'm really looking forward to visiting some of my favorite spots for dinner and a drink, like The Abbey and Il Pastaio...YUM!

My next stop is San Francisco! I'll be at Neiman Marcus in Union Square Friday, May 2nd to Saturday May 3rd!

Can't wait to take a nice stroll through Union Square and chow down on some of the best Italian food in SanFran in North Beach!

I hope to see you all during my visit!

-Catherine

For the bride who wants something edgy and different

Fancy grey diamond is the ideal choice!

While the word "grey" can carry negative connotation, especially when compared to a white, colorless diamond, the dramatic silver tones in fancy grey diamonds have a unique beauty all their own. These fancy grey diamonds have their own metallic sparkle and combine many different undertones of violets, greens, yellows and blues to create an extraordinary brilliance. Fancy grey diamonds can actually be more eye catching and beautiful than the classic white diamond.

It's the perfect diamond for the woman who wants to stand apart but still have the traditional symbolism of a diamond ring.

Rose gold has been celebrated since the early 19th century and has made an amazing come back! Its unique warm color looks fabulous on any skin tone, and has become a favorite for not just women but men too!